Tēnā koutou, we are excited to announce the Hoe Tonga Winter Paddler Series for 2025. This series is designed for paddlers who wish to race in our region over the winter months and is also an opportunity for clubs to introduce novice paddlers to waka ama racing while generating some income.

Waka Ama NZ have shared some statistics with us showing a record increase of 27% of affiliated Hoe Tonga members! We’d love to see all of these new members taking part in the upcoming races and continue to grow the sport in our region.

Hoe Tonga are seeking Expressions of Interest from affiliated member clubs who wish to host an event, and who have the capacity within their club to host. A document with some background information for clubs to consider when planning and event in the paddler series is attached here.

Available race dates are listed below, noting Tai Tonga 41 are hosting the first sanctioned race of the series on Saturday 21st June 2025 at Evans Bay.

Please submit your Expression of Interest along with a list of dates in order of preference to hoetonga@gmail.com by June 18th, 2025. Should you require any additional information please reach out.